Training

Probationary membership

Members of our probationary class are trained according to New York State's EMT-Basic protocols and policies. Each week, probationary members receive lectures from current members and alumni, many of whom are experts in their fields. They also practice the physical skills of EMT-Basics under the supervision of our instructional staff. These include taking vital signs, administering medications, and other treatments included in the state protocol. On top of the EMT-Basic training, probationary members are immediately certified in CPR with an American Heart Association CPR course. Absolutely no experience is necessary; in fact, most of our members start with no prior knowledge of EMS at all! Probationary members ride on the ambulance from the start of your time in probationary class, under the supervision of certified and experienced members. At first, a probationary member’s role is observatory and as the semester progresses, they get the chance to utilize those skills learned in probationary class on actual 9-1-1 calls.

Crew chief trainings

Crew Chiefs are the primary care providers on all 9-1-1 calls handled by SBVAC. In order to prepare for this leadership role, our members take part in Crew Chief Trainings. These trainings, which become especially important in the semesters following probationary class, engage members in mock emergencies where they are the lead patient care provider on scene. The trainee in charge of the “patient” must delegate a crew of other members and deliver patient care using equipment available 9-1-1 calls. Our members act out scenarios using props such as fake blood in order to create the most realistic learning environment possible. This hands-on training is crucial to maintaining the high standards that SBVAC expects from its Crew Chiefs.

company trainings

All SBVAC members participate in continuing medical education in the form of Company Trainings. These trainings, are led by current members, alumni and county educators or providers, cover information not necessarily included in the New York State EMT-Basic curriculum. Past trainings have been on topics such as Differential Diagnoses, Maintenance Medications, and In-Depth EKGs. Our Training Officer coordinates the trainings amongst members and alumni, allowing those with a specialty in a certain area to share their experiences with membership. This model is in line with our emphasis on student-led training, where members of SBVAC have a firsthand role in the education of other members. The knowledge from company trainings allow SBVAC members to become more well-rounded patient care providers as they engage the New York State protocols.